SAGE Success, Achievement, Growth, Empowerment
in Native Higher Education
Good Medicine
Steven Martin’s journey in higher education has taken him across Indian Country, including the Midwest, Northwest, and Southwest. He is deeply grateful for the many teachings and "good medicine" shared with him by Native American leaders, professionals, mentors, and, most importantly, students. As a mentor once told him, this medicine is not meant to be kept but to be shared. Steven is eager to pass on the knowledge he has gained to enhance the experience of Native American students in higher education and to inspire Native American youth to reach new heights.
Sacred Philosophy
Steven’s approach to supporting Native American students, tribal communities, and professional staff is rooted in the South Dakota higher education system, where he helped create the Sacred Hoop Model. This culture-based framework offers a thoughtful, holistic approach to supporting the development of Native American students as they transition into and navigate through higher education. The Sacred Hoop Model continues to serve as a guiding principle for Steven, shaping the cultural programming and strategies he uses to Indigenize the academy. It has been instrumental in building meaningful relationships, fostering community, making campus services and procedures culturally relevant, influencing the hearts of administrators, and, most importantly, creating the cultural foundation necessary for Native students to thrive.